Nitro cold brew coffee makers are devices that help you make nitro cold brew coffee at home or in a cafe. Nitro cold brew is cold brew coffee infused with nitrogen gas. The nitrogen gives the coffee a rich, creamy texture and a smooth taste. It also creates a foamy head, like a stout beer.
The idea behind nitro cold brew is simple. You take cold brew coffee, chill it, and infuse it with nitrogen. The result is a unique and refreshing coffee drink that has become very popular in cafes and coffee shops. Nitro cold brew is usually served from a keg or a tap, but there are now many machines for home use.
Why Do People Like Nitro Cold Brew?
There are many reasons why people enjoy nitro cold brew coffee:
It is smooth and less acidic than hot coffee.
The nitrogen gives it a creamy mouthfeel without adding milk.
It has a natural sweetness that doesn’t need sugar.
It is cold and refreshing, especially in hot weather.
It looks fancy with its cascading bubbles and foamy top.
How Does a Nitro Cold Brew Maker Work?
A nitro cold brew coffee maker usually has these parts:
A container or keg to hold the cold brew coffee.
A nitrogen cartridge or tank to add gas.
A tap or faucet to pour the coffee.
First, you fill the keg or container with your cold brew. Then, you add nitrogen using a cartridge or a tank. You shake the keg to mix the nitrogen with the coffee. Finally, you let the coffee rest for a while, and then serve it from the tap. The nitrogen comes out of the faucet and creates the creamy foam.
Types of Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Makers
There are different types of nitro cold brew makers for home and commercial use. Here are the most common types:
1. Keg Style Systems
These are similar to beer kegs. They have a steel keg, a nitrogen tank, and a tap. These systems are great for cafes or heavy home use. They often hold a large amount of coffee.
Example Models:
- HB Brewing Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Keg Kit
- Royal Brew Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker
- GrowlerWerks uKeg Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker
2. Portable Canister Models
These are smaller, easy to carry, and great for home use. They usually use small nitrogen cartridges instead of a tank. They are simple to use and clean.
Example Models:
- Hatfields London NitroPress
- ISi Nitro Whip
- Royal Brew Mini Keg System
3. Built-In Refrigerated Taps (Commercial)
These are found in cafes and restaurants. They have a fridge unit that keeps the coffee cold and ready to serve. They use larger tanks of nitrogen and can serve many drinks quickly.
Example Models:
- Cornelius NitroPro 3000
- Kegco ICK30S Nitro Kegerator
- Features to Consider When Choosing One
When buying a nitro cold brew maker, look at these features:
Size and Capacity
Small makers hold about 32 to 64 ounces.
Large systems can hold 1 to 5 gallons.
Material
Stainless steel is strong and long-lasting.
Plastic is lighter but not as durable.
Nitrogen Source
Cartridge-based makers use small nitrogen capsules.
Larger systems use a full-size nitrogen tank.
Tap Quality
A good stout-style tap helps make that foamy head.
Some taps are easier to clean and don’t drip.
Pressure System
Some models let you adjust the pressure.
Higher pressure means more foam.
Ease of Use
Look for clear instructions.
Consider how easy it is to clean and store.
Price and Value
Price ranges from $100 to over $1,000.
Consider how often you’ll use it.
Popular Models, Features & Prices
Let’s look at some popular models on the market, what they offer, and how much they cost:
1. Royal Brew Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Maker
Price: Around $150
Capacity: 64 oz
Nitrogen: Uses N2 or N2O cartridges
Material: Stainless steel
Best for: Home users who want quality on a budget
2. GrowlerWerks uKeg Nitro
Price: Around $200-$250
Capacity: 50 oz
Nitrogen: Uses 16g nitro cartridges
Material: Double-wall vacuum insulated stainless steel
Best for: Stylish home use
3. Hatfields London NitroPress
Price: Around $130
Capacity: 16 oz
Nitrogen: 2g N2O cartridges
Material: Stainless steel
Best for: Single servings and portability
4. HB Brewing Nitro Cold Brew Coffee Keg Kit
Price: Around $170
Capacity: 128 oz (1 gallon)
Nitrogen: Works with standard nitrogen tanks
Material: Stainless steel
Best for: Parties or frequent brewing
5. Kegco ICK30S Nitro Kegerator
Price: $800-$1,200
Capacity: 5-gallon keg
Nitrogen: Full-size tank
Material: Commercial-grade stainless steel
Best for: Coffee shops
Tips for Making Nitro Cold Brew at Home
Here’s how to get the best results from your nitro cold brew coffee maker:
- Use a good cold brew concentrate. It should be smooth, strong, and not bitter.
- Chill the coffee before adding nitrogen. Cold coffee holds nitrogen better.
- Shake well after charging with nitrogen. This helps the gas mix with the coffee.
- Let it rest for a bit before pouring. This helps settle the bubbles.
- Use the right cartridges.
- Follow the instructions for the correct gas type and size.
- Clean the equipment after each use. This keeps your coffee fresh and prevents buildup.
Conclusion
Nitro cold brew coffee makers bring the coffee shop experience into your home. Whether you want a small, portable model or a full keg system, there’s an option for every budget and use. The creamy, smooth, and rich taste of nitro cold brew is worth the effort. With the right equipment, you can enjoy it anytime.
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